Los Angeles, March 10 Quentin Tarantino has criticized his "Pulp Fiction" star, Rosanna Arquette, for criticizing his use of the N-word in the 1994 hit film.
"Pulp Fiction," starring John Travolta, Samuel L Jackson, Uma Thurman, Tim Roth, and Bruce Willis, featured Arquette as Jody. The film received an Academy Award at the 67th Academy Awards for Best Original Screenplay.
In an interview with The Times U.K., Arquette said she disliked the overuse of the word in the film, which was used approximately 20 times. "It's an iconic, great film on many levels. But personally, I find the use of the N-word unacceptable...I hate it," she said.
"I cannot stand that he (Tarantino) has been given a free pass. It's not art; it's simply racist and creepy," the 66-year-old actress stated.
Tarantino, who is often critical of people and films, and recently made headlines for calling Paul Dano a weak actor, has responded to Arquette's criticism.
The 62-year-old filmmaker, also known for "Kill Bill," "Jackie Brown," "Reservoir Dogs," "Inglourious Basterds," and "Django Unchained," stated that he gave Arquette a role, and she took the money only to criticize him later.
"I hope the publicity you're receiving from 132 different media outlets writing your name and printing your picture was worth disrespecting me and a film that I remember quite clearly you were thrilled to be a part of," Tarantino said in a statement shared by entertainment news outlet Deadline.
"Do you feel this way now? Very likely. But after I gave you a job, and you took the money, to trash it for what I suspect are very cynical reasons, shows a distinct lack of class, if not honor. There should be a sense of camaraderie among artistic colleagues. But it seems the objective has been achieved. Congratulations, Q," he added.
Tarantino's frequent use of the racial slur has often been criticized by filmmakers and audiences.
In 1997, Spike Lee criticized Tarantino for using the word, saying, "I'm not against the word, and I use it, but not excessively. And some people speak that way. But, Quentin is infatuated with that word. What does he want to be—an honorary Black man?"
Director Lee Daniels also criticized Tarantino for his decision to use the word in his films and his response to the criticism. Tarantino said audiences should see something else if they have an issue with his creative choices.
"That's not the right answer," Daniels said.